A Dress to Change the World

Monday, April 01, 2013 10:00 PM

A Dress to Change the World is in the past.

The Nashville community will have a unique opportunity to view local fashion designer Jeff Garner’s “A Dress to Change the World” show, featuring a tribute collection for the late Princess Grace of Monaco. These selections from Garner’s Prophetik label were originally shown in Monaco in September as part of the event “Grace, A Symbol of Change.”

On April 1, Garner brings this show to Lipscomb University’s Longview Mansion. A dessert reception begins at 7 p.m. on the lawn of Longview followed by the fashion show at 7:30 p.m. Following the show, Garner will talk to patrons about his design style and philosophy. The show is presented by Lipscomb University’s fashion design and merchandising program.

Tickets are $50 for VIP seating that includes a gift bag; $25 for general admission seating; and $10 student standing-room-only viewing. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance by visiting http://www.lipscomb.edu/fcs/Garner-Fashion-Show.

Longview offers a fitting venue for this show as Garner, a native of Franklin, Tenn., takes his inspiration from the dressmakers of the Civil War period who worked with what was in front of them, fashioning beautiful gowns that were later taken apart to recreate new dresses – sustainability born out of necessity. Longview was built in 1845 and served as a campground and battle site during the Battle of Nashville.

About Jeff Garner

Garner, a 1996 graduate of Lipscomb Academy, is known as a romantic visual artist, pioneer, and unconventional designer. His sustainable, organic label Prophetik is transforming and leading an evolution of fashion and changing the perception of luxury. He was recently named a 40 under 40: Craft Futures artist by the Smithsonian Institution, and his designs are part of an exhibit featured in the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s Renwick Gallery this spring.

The inspiration for Garner’s unique Prophetik label was born from his days growing up on a horse farm. It was there that Garner said he developed a connection to nature and a peaceful understanding of the world. The Prophetik label combines Garner’s love for his surroundings with his artistic desires.

Fashion industry experts say that Garner’s designs have a sophistication that set them apart from typical organic clothing. With his collection, Garner said he hopes to bring awareness to an industry that has not been as concerned with the process as much as the results.

In the 11 years that Prophetik has been in existence, Garner’s sustainable garments have been stocked in high-end boutiques across the United States, including the distinguished Fred Segal in Santa Monica (a celebrity favorite), and Eco Age located in London, Japan and Switzerland. With a focus on sustainability, the UK’s fashion industry has welcomed Garner’s diversity with open arms. Prophetik shows at London Fashion Week where Garner was named “2010 Eco Men’s Designer of the Year.”

Garner has also worked as a costume designer for Miley Cyrus, Jeremy Camp, Newsboys, Amy Grant, Sheryl Crow, Jonas Brothers, Kings of Leon, Barry Manilow and Donna Summer, many of whom have become supportive friends and fans of Garner and Prophetik. Garner frequently speaks at universities on sustainability in fashion.